Student Success Center
M.S. in Learning Design and Technology
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Welcome!
As an online student, most of your interactions with the university will be done through various websites. For example:
- You’ll use your USD Email Address for all university-related communications.
- You’ll use Blackboard for all of your coursework and assignments.
- You’ll use your MySanDiego Portal for tuition payments and to access most campus resources.
- You’ll use this site, your Student Success Center, to get specific information about textbook information, deadlines, and more!
(619) 260-4749
COMPLETE YOUR MANDATORY NEW STUDENT CHECKLIST
Our number one priority is you! Our team has prepared a checklist of items that will set you up for success and clarify all action items as a new student. After you have enrolled for your first term, please complete and review all of the following before classes start.
1. View Your Mandatory New Student Welcome Webinar
This webinar will go over a comprehensive look at your program and what to expect as an online learner including resources and tips for success. Each webinar should last around 30-40 minutes. Please RSVP for your Welcome Webinar as soon as possible.
2. Schedule Your New Student Check-in Call
In this call, you’ll “meet” a member of your Student Success Team for your program. Once you attend the welcome webinar, you will be given the link to schedule your new student check-in call. This will be a chance for us to answer any additional questions you have before you start your first term. Please be sure to have any Blackboard-related, program-related, or finance-related questions prepared.
3. Complete Your Blackboard Orientation Course – Due May 5, 2023
Once you have been registered in your classes, you will be able to access your New Student Orientation Course on Blackboard within 24 hours. When accessing Blackboard, please make sure to use Firefox or Chrome as your browser.
The New Student Orientation course is designed to help you navigate your way around Blackboard prior to beginning your first class. You will learn where to find the syllabus, course schedule, assignments, and the discussion board.
Your Orientation is mandatory, and must be completed before the first day of class—so we encourage you to get started! Please plan to spend about 6-8 hours completing the Orientation course. You can move through the Orientation at your own pace, so schedule your time accordingly.
Looking for assistance? View the guide for navigating your Blackboard Orientation course.
4. Submit your Tech Fee Waiver (If you already have access to Articulate360)
All students in the online MS-LDT program require current access to Articulate360 tools for various assignments and projects. The University of San Diego will issue a one-time, discounted tech fee of $280 for all first-semester students to be granted access to an Articulate360 account. Visit the “Tuition & Payment Methods” section for more information.
If you need an Articulate360 account, no action is required. More details will be shared at the start of your program.
If you do not need an Articulate360 account, be sure to submit your waiver request by submitting the Waiver Request Form. Please note that Artilcuate360 access cannot be granted after the first day of class, so only submit the waiver if you already have an account to use with access to the required tools. Visit the “Tuition & Payment Methods” section for more information.
5. Finalize Your Tuition Payment Plan
We recommend that students start this planning early as some funding sources can take some time to process. Tuition payments should be completed in full by the first day of the semester. Visit the “Tuition & Payment Methods” section for more information.
6. Review your Student Handbook
Please make sure to review your student handbook prior to the first day of class, and reference it as needed throughout your program. The handbook is where you can find information on academic expectations, drop and refund policy, technology requirements, curriculum, frequently asked questions, and more.
IMPORTANT DATES
Below is a list of significant dates regarding the registration process, payment deadlines, and other important academic and program deadlines.
Summer 2023 Dates & Deadlines
| Important Dates | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | April 10, 2023 |
| Registration Opens | March 6, 2023 |
| Registration Deadline | April 21, 2023 |
| Orientation Course Due Date | May 5, 2023 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | May 8, 2023 |
| Payment Due Date | May 9, 2023 |
| Semester Begins | May 9, 2023 |
| First Course Start Date | May 9, 2023 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | May 12, 2023 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | June 5, 2023 |
| First Course End Date | June 26, 2023 |
| Second Course Start Date | June 27, 2023 |
| First Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | July 11, 2023 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | July 24, 2023 |
| Second Course End Date | August 14, 2023 |
| Semester Ends | August 14, 2023 |
| Second Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | August 28, 2023 |
Fall 2023 Dates & Deadlines
| Important Dates | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | August 1, 2023 |
| Registration Opens | July 3, 2023 |
| Registration Deadline | August 14, 2023 |
| Orientation Course Due Date | September 1, 2023 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | September 4, 2023 |
| Payment Due Date | September 5, 2023 |
| Semester Begins | September 5, 2023 |
| First Course Start Date | September 5, 2023 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | September 8, 2023 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | October 2, 2023 |
| First Course End Date | October 23, 2023 |
| Second Course Start Date | October 24, 2023 |
| First Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | November 6, 2023 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | November 20, 2023 |
| Second Course End Date | December 11, 2023 |
| Semester Ends | December 11, 2023 |
| Second Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | December 25, 2023 |
Spring 2023 Dates & Deadlines
| Important Dates | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | December 2, 2022 |
| Registration Opens | November 2, 2022 |
| Registration Deadline | December 16, 2022 |
| Orientation Course Due Date | January 6, 2023 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | January 9, 2023 |
| Payment Due Date | January 10, 2023 |
| Semester Begins | January 10, 2023 |
| First Course Start Date | January 10, 2023 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | January 13, 2023 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | February 6, 2023 |
| First Course End Date | February 27, 2023 |
| First Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | March 13, 2023 |
| Second Course Start Date | February 28, 2023 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | March 27, 2023 |
| Second Course End Date | April 17, 2023 |
| Semester Ends | April 17, 2023 |
| Second Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | May 1, 2023 |
Download a pdf of your academic calendar
Class Registration Directions
You have most likely already filled out an Enrollment Agreement, which enables our team to register you for classes each term. No further action is required on your part.
If you are not able to register for both of your courses in a given term, please contact your program coordinator immediately. This often happens for students who need to take a leave of absence.
Textbook information
Students are required to have their textbooks on hand by the first day of class. Unless otherwise specified, students may select any vendor they prefer (such as Amazon.com, Half.com, Alibris.com, etc.) to purchase their course materials. In the event a specific vendor is required, it will be specified in the course materials list. The best way to ensure that you have the correct book is to search by the ISBN number(s) listed on the book list.
Physical copies of books are not on hand at the USD Torero Store. The USD Torero online store does offer price comparisons for different online vendors for some books.
Although all textbooks for all courses are listed, students only need to purchase the items for the classes they are taking for the semester.
Digital Inclusive Access (IA) – Integrated VitalSource Textbooks
If your course is indicated to have a “Digital Inclusive Access” textbook, you do have the option to use the integrated Vitalsource e-textbook without needing to purchase a textbook through an outside vendor. For more information, view the “Digital Inclusive Access” FAQs document.
- Students are able to access the e-textbook directly in the course without worrying about purchasing the wrong version or textbook!
- If your course is indicated as using “Digital Inclusive Access” on the textbook list, please note that you must opt-out within the first 4 days of each course to avoid being charged for the guaranteed-lowest price textbook.
- If you do intend to use “Digital Inclusive Access”, no further action is required after you create a Vitalsource account.
- No refunds can be issued once the textbook charge has been assessed.
PAYing for your program
Tuition at USD is billed per semester, not per course. Payment (or enrollment in an official USD payment plan) is always due by the first day of the semester. Students may not carry balances from one semester to the next.
Accounts with outstanding balances after the official payment due date may be subject to course cancellations/removal or a student account hold during the semester; related holds can prevent upcoming registration, graduation, or obtaining transcripts.
Remember: tuition is always due by the first day of each semester.
Program Tuition
Once you have been registered for your courses, your student account will reflect the appropriate tuition costs according to your program. Your program’s tuition is the following:
- Per Unit (classes are typically 3-units) = $710
- Per Semester (assuming 6-units per semester) = $4,260
- Total Program Cost (including 5 semesters) = $21,300
Students who need to re-take or withdraw from a course may need to pay additional fees according to the Refund/Drop Deadline policies listed in your Student Handbook.
If you have any questions about your Student Account, please reach out to the One Stop Center via email at onestop@sandiego.edu or phone at 619-260-2700. All costs and fees are subject to change and are based on the academic year of enrollment.
Articulate 360 software Tech fee
All students in the online MS-LDT program require current access to Articulate360 software for various assignments and projects. The University of San Diego will issue a one-time, discounted tech fee of $280 for all first-semester students to be granted access to an Articulate360 account. The account suite will grant access to the following tools:
- Storyline 360, Rise 360, Content Library 360, Review 360, Studio 360, Presenter 360, Quizmaker 360, Engage 360, Replay 360, & Peek 360.
Students that already have access to Articulate360 and the required tools can waive this one-time fee by submitting the Waiver Request Form. Please only submit a waiver if you already have access to the following required tools: Storyline 360, Rise 360, Content Library 360, & Review 360.
All enrolled students will have access to Articulate360. If you file a Leave of Absence, withdraw/drop a course, or graduate from the program, access will be terminated until you enroll again in the program.
Refund Policy
Students will be registered for their prescribed courses each semester. All courses must be dropped prior to the first day of the semester to receive a 100% tuition refund and within the first three days of the start date of the semester to receive a 95% tuition refund. No refund (reversal of tuition) will be provided after the third day of the semester for any class.
DEGREE PROGRESS & COMMENCEMENT
DegreeWorks
You can track your progress toward earning your degree using the Degree Works feature in your MySanDiego student portal. Degree Works shows you which courses you have completed, grades, cumulative GPA, any outstanding graduation requirements, and more!
To access Degree Works:
- Log in to your MySanDiego student portal.
- Under the “Torero Hub” tab, click on “My Academics.”
- On the right-hand side under “My Academic Resources”, click on “Degree Works.”
Petition to Graduate
Submitting your petition to graduate is a requirement for every student. About a semester before your final term, you will be reminded by your Program Coordinator to submit your petition to graduate. Once completed, your Academic Coordinator will review your academic record and contact you if there are any outstanding requirements or issues.
Commencement and Diploma Details
If you are planning on participating in the commencement ceremony (which means walking in your cap and gown here on campus), you will be invited to come to the University of San Diego in the month of May to participate in the ceremony. Commencement details and information will be sent from your Student Success Team around the month of February. Please note, there is only one commencement ceremony each academic year. Fall graduates will be invited to the commencement ceremony the May after they graduate, while Summer graduates will be invited to the commencement ceremony the May before they graduate.
The registrar will process their final audit of the degrees 6-8 weeks after grades are posted for your final semester. Once the degree is conferred in the system, the Registrar will order your diploma from the vendor and the vendor will send it to you directly to the address that was listed on your petition to graduate. Mailing time is an additional 6-8 weeks from the date of order, and you will likely receive your diploma in the mail in 3-4 months after you have completed your degree requirements. *Please note, if your mailing address changes after you submit your Petition to Graduate, please notify the Graduate Records office at (619) 260-2217 or usdgradrec@sandiego.edu.
Course Requirements
The 30 unit program will consist of ten courses. Courses will be offered year-round with three semesters every year; Spring, Summer, and Fall. Each semester will last 14 weeks. Students will take two courses per semester. Courses will run for seven weeks each with a one or two-week break in between semesters. This intensive format will allow students to focus on one course at a time and to still complete the degree program in 20 months.
Course Titles and Descriptions
Introduction to Instructional and Learning Design (LDT 500A)
This course focuses on the field of instructional and learning design. The history of instructional design and the quickly evolving landscape of the profession will be reviewed. Learning theories, current theories of learning and cognition, and instructional design development models will be examined. Students will engage with these theories and models to think critically about sound and research-based instructional design approaches for instruction.
Introduction to Learning Technologies (LDT 500B)
This course introduces students to research-based principles of effective multimedia design and the creation of original media that conforms to those principles. It examines common learning technologies and tools used for the development of multimedia for instruction. Tools include course authoring software such as Adobe Captivate and Articulate Storyline, and concepts include basic principles of HTML coding, website design, an introduction to visual and graphic design, and storyboarding. Emerging technologies are used in the creation of interactive learning experiences.
Advanced Learning Theory and Design (LDT 520)
This course examines advanced topics in instructional design, including needs assessment, instructional challenges, learner characteristics, task analysis, alignment of learning objectives, content sequencing, instructional strategies, instructional delivery, evaluation instruments, instructional resources, formative and summative assessments, and project management. Students will learn to employ sound design principles and best practices in planning, designing, developing and evaluating effective learning experiences.
Learning Media Design (LDT 530)
This course explores the artistic and technical aspects of creating engaging and accessible digital media to relay information. Discusses research-based and ethical approaches to multimedia design. Students apply basic principles of user experience (UX) and follow WCAG 2.1 guidelines in the design of an ADA compliant learning artifact prototype. Explore production methods using emerging design tools. Evaluate design decisions based on learner experience (LX) design rubric.
Assets and Artifacts (LDT 535)
This course focuses on digital asset and artifact curation. It explores laws applicable to education and training including provisions of the U.S. Technology, Education and Copyright Harmonization Act, Open Educational Resources and Creative Commons Licensing. Legal and ethical case studies related to the use of easily accessible online artifacts and assets are examined. Content curation methods are also discussed.
Leadership in Virtual Learning (LDT 540)
This course establishes a strong foundation for ethical leadership in the field of virtual learning. It focuses on developing knowledge of regulatory bodies (i.e. Accreditation, Accessibility, GDPR, etc.) and developing communication skills for effective learning with various project stakeholders. Students will examine case studies where they will analyze data, create efficient project plans, and maintain timelines with stakeholders in order to meet the needs of their learners.
Educational Research Methods (LDT 545)
This course examines theories and techniques for evaluating educational and training programs. Students apply methodologies used to identify needs, establish objectives, and critically evaluate quality and outcomes in education, industry, and adult training environments. Students will learn how program evaluation provides evidence to support the assertions made in the program plan.
Program Design, Assessment and Evaluation (LDT 550)
This course examines theories and techniques for evaluating educational and training programs. Students apply methodologies used to identify needs, establish objectives, and critically evaluate quality and outcomes in education, industry, and adult training environments. Students will learn how program evaluation provides evidence to support the assertions made in the program plan.
Emerging Technologies and Design Approaches (LDT 555)
This course emphasizes the evaluation, application, and integration of emerging learning programs and media technologies. Students will examine learning program designs such as competency-based programs, MOOC, micro-credentialing and badging. Students will identify and assess trends in learning design in order to make responsible recommendations for deployment.
Capstone (LDT 560)
This culminating course synthesizes topics discussed in all program courses. Students demonstrate achievement of all program learning outcomes through a peer-evaluated portfolio project. Students reflect on quality and ethics in learning design and create an artifact.
Student Resources
This list is helpful resources that will set you up for success. Haven’t written in APA formatting since your undergraduate program? We’ve got you covered! Want to know what type of computer you will need? No problem. We have listed helpful resources below.
Technical Requirements
You must own or have unrestricted access to a computer for this program. Courses will utilize a variety of technologies and multimedia. To complete course activities and to access course content, please verify that you have the following technologies and plug-ins available:
- Computer – 16 GB, 1.5 GHz Speed I7 + 500 GB external memory (preferably SSD hard disk drive). PC computer suggested.
- Mac users will need to (1) download a PC emulation software such as VMWare Fusion in order to access the required program software and (2) have access to Window 10 or newer.
- Browser Plug-ins – Windows Media Player, QuickTime, and Adobe Reader.
- Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome are the recommended browsers. (You will want to have 2 browsers for software testing and viewing).
- Microsoft Office is required. If you are using Office 2003 or earlier, download and install the Microsoft Office Compatibility pack.
- Speakers or headset – to listen and record multimedia.
- Webcam – for recording video.
- High-speed internet connection required (DSL or better).
- Google Suite (Gmail for student email, Google docs, Google Drive, etc.) Here is information on G Suite available through USD.
- Access to Articulate360 tools (Storyline 360, Rise 360, Content Library 360, and Review 360). See information on the “Articulate360 Access” dropdown for more details.
Articulate 360 Access
All students in the online MS-LDT program require current access to Articulate360 software for various assignments and projects. The University of San Diego will issue a one-time, discounted tech fee of $280 for all first-semester students to be granted access to an Articulate360 account. The account suite will grant access to the following tools:
- Storyline 360, Rise 360, Content Library 360, Review 360, Studio 360, Presenter 360, Quizmaker 360, Engage 360, Replay 360, & Peek 360 (without the discounted rate, the cost for these tools would typically be ~$500/year).
Students that already have access to Articulate360 and the required tools can waive this one-time fee by submitting the Waiver Request form. Please only submit a waiver if you already have access to the following required tools: Storyline 360, Rise 360, Content Library 360, & Review 360.
All enrolled students will have access to Articulate360. If you file a Leave of Absence, withdraw/drop a course, or graduate from the program, access will be terminated until you enroll again in the program.
OSU E-Learning Instructional Design and Development Certificate Transfer Credit
If you have completed the entire E-Learning Instructional Design and Development Certificate with a “Pass” grade for each course from the Oregon State University Division of Continuing Education, you may be eligible to receive credit for LDT 500A and LDT 500B in your MS in Learning Design & Technology program!
To start the process of transferring units, email your Program Coordinator and let us know that you’ve completed the certificate. Please make sure that you’ve already submitted your official transcript to the university – we’ll need it to process the transfer.
UCI E-Learning Instructional Design Certificate Transfer Credit
If you have completed the entire E-Learning Instructional Design Certificate Program with a grade of B or better in each course from UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education, you may be eligible to receive credit for LDT 500A and LDT 500B in your MS in Learning Design & Technology program!
To start the process of transferring units, email your Program Coordinator and let us know that you’ve completed the certificate. Please make sure that you’ve already submitted your official transcript to the university – we’ll need it to process the transfer.
Graduate Writing Expectations and Tips
All writing assignments must be formatted according to APA standards. Discussion posts must contain the appropriate APA citations. If you want additional writing support, we recommend Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL@Purdue). In addition to general writing support, the website includes a special section dedicated to APA formatting guidelines.
Another helpful writing resource is the School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) Graduate Student Writing Center. Enrolled students can submit assignments for review by a writing professional.
Download Microsoft Office 365 (Free for USD Students)
Students at the University of San Diego are able to download Microsoft Office 365 for free! If you don’t have it already, you can download the Microsoft Office 365 suite using your USD student email.
TimelyCare – Telehealth for USD Students
TimelyCare is a provider of 24/7, no-cost telehealth services for USD students to address common conditions that can be safely diagnosed and treated remotely. TimelyCare services are available at no cost to the student. Services include:
- Live and on-demand self-care sessions (yoga, breathing, stretching)
- Access to on-demand counselors for emotional health support
- Access to schedule a session with a licensed counselor (up to 12 times per year)
MS-LDT Student Handbook
The handbook is where you can find information on academic expectations, drop and refund policy, technology requirements, curriculum, frequently asked questions, and more.
External Tutoring Resource
USD does not offer subject-specific tutoring resources, so students who are looking for tutoring support are encouraged to identify a tutor using Wyzant.com. Please note that Wyzant is not a USD-managed resource, so use them at your own discretion.
Student Code of Rights and Responsibilities for Graduate Students
It is the policy of the University of San Diego to adhere to the rules and regulations as announced in this brochure or other University Publications. The University nevertheless hereby gives notice that it reserves the right to expand or delete or otherwise modify this online publication whenever such changes are adjudged by it to be desirable or necessary. Changes will be made periodically as needed.
Blackboard (Bb) @ USD
In your program, you can think of Blackboard as your virtual tool to share information with professors and peers. You will use Blackboard to access your course content, find course syllabi, review your assignments, and more. Be sure to use your USD login credential to log in. If you have any difficulty logging into your course, be sure to contact ITS at (619) 260-7900 or help@sandiego.edu.
Netiquette Guidelines
The concept of netiquette covers proper communication online. Read our guidelines to help cultivate a supportive and productive online environment.
your partners toward success
At USD, you join a community of individuals who are all committed to one common goal: your success. As you familiarize yourself with your team, take the opportunity to virtually meet and connect with the resources available to you as a student. Click on the profiles below to learn more about each office or staff member and watch a brief video about their role in supporting you through graduation.
Career and professional resources
Whether you’re hoping to find a new job or earn a promotion, USD has a wealth of resources available to prepare you for your dream role.